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Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the orange juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
3. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Orange Jelly Layer:
While the cake is cooling, prepare the orange jelly layer. In a small saucepan, heat the orange juice and sugar (if using) over low heat until warm.
Sprinkle the gelatin over the warm juice and stir until it’s fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Once the cake has cooled to room temperature, pour the orange jelly mixture over the top of the cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the cake in the fridge for about 1-2 hours, or until the jelly has set.
5. Make the Chocolate Glaze:
While the jelly layer is setting, melt the chocolate with the cream or milk. You can do this in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring between each.
Stir the melted chocolate until smooth and glossy.
6. Glaze the Cake:
Once the jelly layer is fully set, pour the melted chocolate over the top of the cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the jelly layer. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or place the cake in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to speed up the process.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chocolate has set, slice the cake and serve. The result is a beautiful loaf cake with a glossy chocolate topping, a zesty orange jelly layer, and a soft, fluffy sponge that’s full of citrusy goodness.
Tips for Perfect Jaffa Cake Loaf Cake:
- Make the Jelly Layer in Advance: If you want to save time, you can prepare the orange jelly layer the day before. Just make sure the jelly is completely set before adding the chocolate glaze.
- Use Fresh Orange Juice: For the best flavor, always use fresh orange juice, as it will give the cake a vibrant citrus taste that really shines through. Avoid using store-bought orange juice with added preservatives or sugars.
- Customize the Chocolate: If you prefer a richer flavor, use dark chocolate. For a sweeter, creamier taste, milk chocolate works beautifully. You can even use a mix of both for a balanced chocolate flavor.
- Add Extra Orange Zest: For an even more intense orange flavor, you can increase the amount of orange zest in the cake batter or the jelly layer. It will enhance the citrus notes and make the cake even more aromatic.
- Make It Ahead: This cake actually improves in flavor after a day or two, as the jelly and chocolate layers settle nicely into the sponge. It’s perfect for making ahead for a special occasion or to enjoy throughout the week.
Why Jaffa Cake Loaf Cake is a Showstopper:
This Jaffa Cake Loaf Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a fun and indulgent twist on a classic favorite that’s guaranteed to impress. With its light and fluffy texture, tangy orange jelly layer, and glossy chocolate topping, it brings together all the best elements of the beloved Jaffa Cake in an easy-to-slice loaf form.
Whether you’re looking for a new cake recipe to try, or simply want to pay homage to the iconic Jaffa Cake, this loaf cake is a treat you won’t want to miss. Perfect for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a delicious dessert to end any meal, this cake is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Give it a try, and rediscover the magic of Jaffa Cakes in a whole new way!
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